No Points for “Close” in Flooring

Would you wear a pair of roller skates instead of ice skates to a hockey game? Before you dismiss the idea as ridiculous, think about some similarities between roller skates and ice skates. Obviously, they are both footwear. They even have a similar appearance, and might even be made of the same material. However, the difference in functionality makes the idea of using roller skates on ice absurd, and frankly, dangerous.

Of course, roller skates do not work on ice. Similarly, non-sports floors, like carpet or VCT, will not work in gymnasiums. Alarmingly, this mistake is made with gym flooring all the time. Non-sports surfaces are installed instead of approved sports surfaces, because they are both floors, right? They might even look alike or contain the same materials. Perhaps you already see where this is going.

Just like “roller skates vs. ice skates,” the functional differences between non-sports floors and sports floors matter most. True sports surfaces, like Padenpor and Omnisports, are tested for the right amount of ball rebound, shock absorption, surface friction, and vertical deformation. These properties are measured using standards like ASTM F2772, DIN 18032, or EN 14904. They are essential to gameplay, comfort, and safety.

It is possible that a non-sports floor meets 1 out of 4 standards, but a jump shot doesn’t score points for getting close to the hoop. If a floor has acceptable ball rebound, but players have chronic knee pain, it doesn’t count. As designers of athletic spaces, we have an obligation to use the right floor for the right purpose. Abacus Sports can help you do just that.

Let’s keep the roller skates off the ice rink. Contact Abacus Sports or call 717-560-8050.